The Health and Family Planning Commission of Jilin Province reported the first human case of avian influenza A(H7N9) in 2017.

H7N9 avian influenzaImage/CDC

Health officials say the 34-year-old male patient from Tonghua City has been hospitalized for management and his condition is critical now.

As of Monday, the total human cases reported since 2013 has risen to 1412.

Most human cases are exposed to avian influenza A(H7N9) virus through contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments, including live poultry markets. Since the virus continues to be detected in animals and environments, and live poultry vending continues, further human cases can be expected.

Although small clusters of cases of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus have been reported including those involving patients in the same ward, current epidemiological and virological evidence suggests that this virus has not acquired the ability of sustained transmission among humans.

Travelers to countries with known outbreaks of avian influenza should avoid, if possible, poultry farms, contact with animals in live poultry markets, entering areas where poultry may be slaughtered, or contact with any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals. Travelers should also wash their hands often with soap and water, and follow good food safety and good food hygiene practices.